Читать книгу Backpacking Arizona. From Deep Canyons to Sky Islands онлайн

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Warning: There have been vehicle break-ins at this isolated trailhead. Do not leave valuables in your car.

DESCRIPTION The old horse trail starts from the ruins of Rainbow Lodge, a former departure point for guided pack trips to Rainbow Bridge. It contours for about 0.5 mile along the slope through the pygmy forest of pinyon pine and juniper trees and crosses appropriately named First Canyon. This is the first of several canyons you’ll cross. After contouring around First Canyon, the trail heads northwest across another pinyon-juniper slope. Since the miniature forest is open, there are sweeping views of the canyon country to the south and west.

Tip: Although the trip can be done as an overnight hike, it is much more enjoyable as a 3-day trip. Because of the long drive to the trailhead, you won’t have a full day of hiking on the first and last days. Also, a 3-day trip lets you camp in isolated, spectacular Cliff Canyon or Redbud Creek, instead of at Rainbow Bridge, which is crowded with boaters. Plan your trip to allow plenty of time at Rainbow Bridge. You won’t regret it, and you’ll have a chance to have the bridge to yourself during lulls in the boat and airplane traffic, especially early in the morning or late in the day.